Page 17 of Valentines In The Presidential Suite

Caesar looked up at her and wagged his tail.

Laughing, Morgan took a sip of wine and listened as Isabel and Brad discussed timing.

“Whatever scheduling works for you will be fine with me,” said Brad. “If necessary, Morgan may be able to help with that. Is that all right with you?” he asked her.

“Yes, I’m as anxious as you to see the end result,” she said.

Isabel got to her feet. “I’m sorry, but I can’t stay. I’m meeting another client. Brad, I’ll send you a schedule once I’ve confirmed everything. The painters have already been put on alert and are standing by.”

Brad stood and walked Isabel to her car.

While they were gone, Morgan made some notes on her phone’s calendar. If necessary, she could give up her pre-office morning runs to help out.

When Brad returned, he refilled her wine glass and his, and then he sat down. “I want to thank you. I normally wouldn’t ask my assistant to get involved with personal things, but you’ve been so helpful from the beginning, I didn’t think you would mind.”

“I’m happy to help. I know what it’s like to move into a new area and not know many people. I wouldn’t even be in Ellenton without my best friend’s encouragement following the death of my husband.”

“I’m sorry you’re alone,” he said. “It’s still an adjustment for me, even after all this time. I suppose that’s why I’m reluctant to begin dating.”

“My marriage wasn’t a happy one, which is why I’m content to be by myself,” said Morgan. “I keep busy with my activities.”

“I need to find some activities of my own. Can you recommend a gym?”

“I sometimes go to the gym after work at the Town Fitness Center. They have a lot of equipment and private instructors if you need or want them. They’re located right off Main Street at First Avenue.”

“Thanks. I’ll stop by sometime to check them out.” He checked his watch. “It’s getting late. Can I treat you to dinner? You can choose someplace you think I would enjoy.”

“Do you like Italian? Luciano’s has excellent food.”

“Sure. That sounds delicious. Let me take care of the dogs, and then you can lead the way. I’ll follow in my car.”

“Great,” said Morgan, relieved there wouldn’t be any awkwardness between them about getting home following dinner.

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Luciano’s Italian Restaurant was one of Morgan’s favorites. It was a simple, down-home restaurant with hearty, traditional food to die for. The family that ran it was well-known in town. The present manager was the grandson of the original owners.

Inside, the décor was charming and family-friendly, designed for families, providing places for them without fear of annoying others. Tables were covered in red-checked plastic coverings, and booth seats were upholstered in red vinyl. The simple wooden chairs, pulled up to tables, had red vinyl-covered seats. The emphasis was on outstanding food and easy conversation. It made it pleasant for those, like Morgan, who ate here alone. The waiters and waitresses were excellent about remembering customers’ names, and she loved being greeted by them, which made the restaurant even more welcoming.

Morgan waited by the door for Brad to park his car. The smell of garlic, tomatoes, and cheese had her mouth watering by the time he reached her.

“Smells delicious,” he murmured as he held the door for her.

“The food never disappoints,” she said, smiling at Tina, the hostess greeting them.

“Hello, Morgan. How are you?” Tina asked as she gave Brad an approving look.

“I’m fine, thank you,” said Morgan. “I want you to meet Brad Hamlin, a new lawyer in town. I’m introducing him to your restaurant.”

“Hello,” said Brad. “I can already tell this will become one of my favorite places. The food smells fantastic.”

“This restaurant has been in my husband’s family for years,” said Tina. “I’m confident you’ll love it. If not, let us know, and we’ll make sure you’re satisfied.”

Tina led them to a quiet booth in a corner of one of the smaller rooms and handed them menus. “Angie will be taking care of you.”

“Thanks,” said Morgan, sliding onto the seat opposite Brad, where she could easily see the rest of the room.

Brad glanced over the menu and then looked at Morgan. “It all looks delicious. Have any suggestions?”